Police officers came together Saturday with residents of Fordham Heights to promote solidarity between both groups.

Sen. Jamal Bailey organized the event to encourage open dialogue between the police and the community.

"As much as residents have to respect the police the police also have to respect the residents and we have to live together that's the reality the only way that we will bridge a gap the only way that will get past the divide is to solve the equation," says Sen. Bailey. "By coming together and we have to come together with a common understanding of what each other faces."

The event features a panel discussion that included educators, local community leaders and high ranking members of the NYPD.